What Defines Coastal Golf?

The land tells you how to play

Coastal golf is not just a backdrop. The ground, weather, and sightlines tell you which shots are sensible. Expect salt air, firm turf, pot bunkers, and crosswinds. A ball that looks perfect in the air can finish in a very different place once it lands.

Traits you’ll notice

• More ground game: landing short can be smarter than flying it pin-high.
• Bigger visuals: hazards and horizons can make targets look narrower than they are.
• Changing yardages: temperature, wind, and firmness alter club selection.

The best players stay curious. They watch the first bounce, not just the carry.

First adjustment

Before chasing pins, learn where the course wants the ball to finish. Aim at the safe half of greens and favor tee shots that leave a full wedge rather than a heroic angle from trouble.